I've seen a few Zens come up for sale recently, and it has me thinking about them again. I'd be curious to get some opinions ... I know it flys different then a 1.5, etc. but I'm interested to get some input on them from the group. :)

I have some pictures of a Zen & Rev 1 together. The size is almost identical, but the sail geometry is slightly different. I believe they probably had some expert guidance in fine tuning the geometry to optimize the performance for lighter winds / slower flying. The belly in the middle is deeper with more sail area, less likely to "bow-tie." The vertical rods are closer to the center, and the leading edge has a bit more arc than the Rev 1. Pics follow.

Hi swannie. ...I have a Zen.They load up a lot more than a 1.5 in light winds, as there is a lot more sail area to "grab" the wind. It flies slower than the 1.5 and the turning is a bit slower, too. Generally speaking, you fly it just like the 1.5. You still need to know light wind techniques.I hope this helps you. If you have ant questions, feel free to ask..

No problem. BTW, those are not mine - they belong to the Decorators. I don't own a Zen, but I do have a Rev 1 (or two) if you want to try one out. I used to have a Rev 1 SUL, which probably is more similar to a Zen, but I sold that a while back.

Hi Guys....There is a difference between the Rev 1 and the Zen. The Zen's center is deeper, more in the ratio of a 1.5. The Rev 1 is very narrow at the center (inverted "V"). I have found that it is easily bowtied because of it. The Zen is much more stable...IMHO.

Oh... Now you tell me Jynx!For the very few times that I would fly a Zen, is why I don't have one... yet...Anyone know who bought JBs blue fade Zen he just sold to raise funds for his cross country trip?... Jynx?